Flags ordered to half-staff in honor of former KY Gov. Martha Layne Collins
Flags at state office buildings in Kentucky will be lowered to half-staff after the death of former Gov. Martha Layne Collins, Gov. Andy Beshear said Monday.
Collins, 88, died Saturday, Nov. 1. She was the first and only woman to serve as governor of Kentucky, and only the third woman in the United States to be elected to a gubernatorial office.
“Former Gov. Martha Layne Collins was a powerhouse, transforming our commonwealth through major accomplishments like bringing Toyota to our state for its first U.S. site. She created a foundation for us to build a strong future upon, and her legacy will continue to benefit Kentucky families for generations,” Beshear said in a statement. “Let’s remember to send up a thank you with our prayers as we remember a remarkable leader who made an undeniable difference in our state.”
Collins served as governor from 1983 to 1987, previously serving as lieutenant governor from 1979 to 1983. She was born in Bagdad, in Shelby County, on Dec. 7, 1936, and graduated from the University of Kentucky.
She chaired the Democratic National Convention in 1984 and was considered by presidential candidate Walter Mondale as a running mate.
One of Collins’ most lasting achievements was bringing Toyota to Georgetown, a move that created thousands of jobs and had a lasting economic impact on the region. About 10,000 are currently employed at the Georgetown plant, with numerous suppliers in the area.
She was a former teacher in Jefferson and Woodford counties, who was also credited with education improvements, including a $300 million reform package that brought raises for teachers. After teaching, she began a political career in 1971.